Code of Ethics for Research

Code of Ethics for Research

Introduction

The purpose of this Code of Ethics is to ensure that all research conducted under the auspices of ISBM University adheres to the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and ethical responsibility. This code applies to all faculty, staff, students, and affiliated researchers.

Principles of Ethical Research

1. Integrity: Researchers must conduct their work with honesty and transparency, ensuring accuracy in the presentation of research findings and methods.
2. Respect for Persons:All research participants should be treated with dignity and respect. Informed consent must be obtained from all pafticipants, and their autonomy should be protected.
3. Beneficence: To maintain the confidentiality of all university-related information, except where disclosure is authorized or legally mandated. Respect the privacy of students, staff, and faculty.
4. Justice:Research should be conducted fairly, ensuring equitable distribution of its benefits and burdens. No group should be unfairly disadvantaged or exploited.
5. Confidentiality Researchers must maintain the confidentiality of information obtained from research participants, ensuring their privacy is protected.
6. AccountabilityResearchers are accountable to their peers, the public, and the institution. They must ensure their research complies with all applicable laws, regulations, and institutional policies.

Responsibilities of Researchers

1. Compliance with Regulations: Researchers must adhere to all local, national, and international laws and regulations governing their research. This includes obtaining necessary approvals from University ethics committees.
2. Informed Consent:Researchers must obtain informed consent from all research participants. Consent should be given freely, without coercion, and participants should be fully informed of the nature, purpose, and potential risks of the research.
3. Beneficence: To maintain the confidentiality of all university-related information, except where disclosure is authorized or legally mandated. Respect the privacy of students, staff, and faculty.
4. Data Management:Researchers must ensure accurate, complete, and verifiable data collection and storage. Data should be retained for a period specified by the institution and should be accessible for review if necessary.
5. Publication and Authorship: Researchers must report their findings honestly and accurately. Proper attribution should be given to all contributors, and any conflicts of interest should be disclosed. Plagiarism and fabrication of data are strictly prohibited.
6. Conflict of Interest:Researchers must avoid situations where personal or financial interests may compromise their professional judgment or integrity. All potential conflicts of interest should be disclosed to the institution.

Institutional Responsibilities

1. Support for Ethical Research: The institution should provide resources and support to promote ethical research practices. This includes training, guidance, and oversight to ensure compliance with ethical standards.
2. Monitoring and Enforcement:The institution should establish mechanisms for monitoring research activities and enforcing this Code of Ethics. This includes regular audits, reviews, and the ability to address violations effectively.
3. Protection of Whistleblowers:The institution should protect individuals who report unethical research practices in good faith from retaliation. A clear process for reporting concerns should be established and communicated to all members of the research community.

Reporting and Addressing Ethical Violations

1. Reporting Mechanism:Any concerns or allegations of unethical research practices should be reported to the designated ethics committee or office. The institution should provide a clear and confidential process for reporting.
2. Investigation Process:Reported concerns should be investigated promptly and thoroughly by the institution. The investigation process should be fair, impartial, and respectful of all parties involved.
3. Consequences of Violations:Violations of this Code of Ethics may result in disciplinary action, including but not limited to, retraction of publications, suspension of research privileges, or termination of employment.

Review and Updates

This Code of Ethics should be reviewed regularly and updated as necessary to reflect changes in laws, regulations, and best practices in research ethics.